Jewelry making is quick to learn and endlessly creative: stretch bracelets for a sleepover, earrings for a craft fair, or a charm necklace for a graduation gift. Most beginner pieces need only a few tools.
Wire in the US is measured in AWG gauge, where a smaller number means thicker wire. 20 to 22 gauge is common for loops and wire wrapping; thinner 26 to 28 gauge is used for delicate work.
Supplies worth knowing about
Jewelry pliers
Round-nose for loops, chain-nose for gripping and opening jump rings, and flush cutters for clean wire ends.
Beads
Seed beads, glass, gemstone, wood and acrylic. Check bead size (in mm) and hole size against your cord or wire.
Findings
Jump rings, lobster clasps, crimp beads, head pins and ear wires. A mixed kit helps you learn what you like to use.
Craft & beading wire
Craft wire (by gauge) for loops and wrapping; nylon-coated beading wire for strung necklaces.
Stretch cord
The easiest way to make bracelets, no clasps needed. A drop of jewelry glue on the knot helps it hold.
Starter kits
Tools, findings and beads in one box, great for trying the craft or gifting to a teen.
Pro tip: Open jump rings by twisting the ends sideways (front-to-back), never by pulling them apart. They'll close perfectly round.
Know before you buy
What's the difference between gold-filled and gold-plated?
Gold-filled has a much thicker layer of gold bonded to a base metal than gold-plated, so it generally lasts longer. The FTC's Jewelry Guides cover how these terms should be used, which matters if you sell your work.
What does .925 mean?
It's the mark for sterling silver: 92.5% silver alloyed with other metals for strength.
Which earring hooks are best for sensitive ears?
Look for findings clearly labeled nickel-free, or made from sterling silver, niobium, titanium or surgical steel.